The phrase “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication” is widely attributed to Leonardo da Vinci. However, there is no substantial evidence that he ever wrote or said these exact words. The earliest known appearance of this expression dates back to 1931, in Clare Boothe Luce’s novel “Stuffed Shirts,” where she wrote, “the height of sophistication is simplicity.” This suggests that the attribution to da Vinci may be a more recent development, possibly popularized by its use in advertising, such as Apple’s 1977 brochure for the Apple II computer, which featured the slogan without crediting any author.

Even though the exact phrase may not originate from da Vinci, the concept aligns with his approach to art and design. Leonardo often emphasized clarity and efficiency in his work, stripping away unnecessary elements to reveal the essence of the subject. This philosophy is evident in his detailed studies and inventions, where he sought to understand and depict the fundamental principles of nature.

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